Read thought-provoking perspectives on how families are leading change in communities, and highlights events, resources and networks you can join. This edition of the Coming Together features a number of successful employment stories, written from the perspective of the parents who helped make employment possible.

On November 27th, 2012 the Canadian Association for Community Living (CACL) and People First of Canada (PFC) welcomed more than 70 participants to our 3rd Annual Federal Policy Forum at the National Hotel and Suites in Ottawa, Ontario. The theme for the forum was “Advancing Employment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities.” Participants included representatives of the Canadian Association for Community Living, People First of Canada and the Government of Canada as well as individuals, families, community leaders, policy makers, employers and employees from throughout the country.

CACL 2012 Annual Report Card focuses on Equality Rights and Global InclusionOn December 3rd, 2012 International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Canadian Association for Community Living is releasing the 2012 National Report Card. This year the National Report Card is focused on issues of Achieving Equality Rights and Making a Global Impact. These are two of the 10 objectives in CACL’s Vision 2020 agenda – an agenda adopted to assist Canadians and governments in building a more inclusive Canada.

Read thought-provoking perspectives on how families are leading change in communities, and highlights events, resources and networks you can join. This edition of the Coming Together features an editorial by Karin Melberg Schwier, author of "Flourish — People with Disabilities, Living Life with Passion." In addition the the editorial, families also shared their reactions or story in response to Melbgerg Schwier's editorial.

Employment is a very important part of our adult lives. It is much
more than simply earning money. Through paid work we meet new people and
establish new friendships, increase feelings of self worth, enable
greater independence, become part of community and contribute to that
community. Perhaps more importantly it affects how other people and
society in general view us — recognizing our value, contribution,
ability, and capacity.